What To Do When A Loved One Is Arrested

When someone you love gets arrested, it’s an incredibly stressful event. You may be in shock or wondering how you can fix the situation. It’s common to feel fear and worry for that person while navigating the implications in your own life.

Knowing what to do can make all the difference. Here are some key things to remember if your loved one gets arrested.

Stay Calm

Staying calm is of the utmost importance when dealing with an arrest, whether you’re there when it happens or you find out afterward. You need to think clearly to avoid making a bad situation worse.

One common reaction to a loved one getting arrested is sharing details of the events to try and convey their side of the story. Unfortunately, this reaction can reveal details that could be used against the person later. Remember that the right to remain silent should also apply to you in this situation.

Get the Details

Start collecting as many details about the arrest as possible. Find out where the person has been taken, what their booking number is, and any other important details about the charges. The more information you can collect, the better you can help from the outside.

Talk To an Attorney

If it’s appropriate, call an attorney on behalf of your loved one. It’s possible that the accused will request an attorney themselves. However, the ability to phone different attorneys is limited while detained, so this is an opportunity for you to research and find the best possible option based on their situation.

Plan For the Key Dates

Knowing the key dates of upcoming court appearances will help you prepare for and support your loved one during the process. If your loved one is charged, the first event will be an arraignment, in which they appear before a judge to make their plea. 

At this time, the charges will be clearly stated with the information provided, along with the next steps. During this hearing, the judge will also discuss whether the accused is eligible for bail, and what those terms will be.

Talk To a Bondsman

After you have information about the bail terms, consider reaching out to a bail bonding service or bondsman. A bail bonding service charges a fee to act as a surety for the defendant and, according to 123 Bail Bonding, the bail bonding service commits to covering the charges if the person breaks the bail agreement.

This option is ideal for those with limited funds to pay the total amount upfront. However, if the bail agreement is broken, the bail bonding service will take collateral based on the contract you sign to enlist their services. It’s essential to understand what the defendant must agree to, as well as what you’re risking if your assets are listed as collateral.

Be Supportive

You may not understand what happened or why the person you love made the choices they did that put them in the situation. The best thing you can do for them is to be supportive and listen when possible. Helping move the process along from the outside will go a long way in supporting your loved one in the days, weeks, and months following the initial arrest.

Take Care of Yourself

Finally, remember to take care of yourself. Set aside some time for self-care and reflection, and don’t feel pressured into doing anything you aren’t comfortable with when supporting the accused individual. You have a right to take a step back, set boundaries, and process your emotions.

It’s also important that you reflect on how this event will both directly and indirectly impact your life. For example, if the accused is your spouse, finances and childcare will be directly affected. The arrest of a sibling or friend may not impact your daily life, but will take a toll on your emotions and mental health.